Parasitism

Definition

A symbiotic relationship between two organisms where one organism, the parasite, benefits at the expense of the host.

Etymology

From the Greek 'parasitos', meaning 'one who eats at the table of another'.

Example

An example of parasitism in arthropods is the relationship between the parasitic wasp and its host caterpillar, where the wasp lays eggs inside the caterpillar and the larvae consume it from within.

Synonyms

• Parasitic relationship

Related Terms

• Host
• Parasite
• Symbiosis
• Mutualism
• Commensalism

Usage Notes

Parasitism can affect the host's health, behavior, and survival, and can occur in a variety of insect and arachnid species.